Known for its culture and beautiful state parks with massive mountains, North Carolina is one of the best states for education in the US. The state offers multiple educational institutions that teach different degrees, all promoting early childhood education degrees. Whether it is Bachelor, Master, Associate, or Ph.D. program, there are various options that one can choose from.
This guide will discuss the different North Carolina institutions that can be great for individuals who want successful career choices. If you wish to apply on-campus or enroll in an online degree, this article will significantly help you.
Early Childhood Education Degrees In North Carolina- On Ground
Here are the top institutions of North Carolina offering on-ground degrees in early childhood education.
Associate Degree Programs In Early Childhood Education
Durham Technical Community College- Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Early Childhood Education
The Durham Technical Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education for individuals passionate about pursuing their career in teaching and mentoring. Students applying to this degree are avidly interested in teaching, language arts, and social studies. With a focus on enhancing skills and helping develop sufficient knowledge, this program is about educating individuals on how to treat children from birth to kindergarten.
After pursuing this degree, students can also request a transfer to other institutions, including UNC system institutions. Completing this degree also leads to a teaching licensure program or even a Bachelor’s degree in a related Early Childhood program.
The other part of this degree is Associate in Arts, which focuses on developing foundational knowledge such as English and Fine Arts. Durham Tech has partnered with other universities to ensure their students seamlessly enter other institutions. The College also offers financial aid for its students, and students can fill out the application form by visiting their website and creating an account.
Central Piedmont Community College- Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
The Central Piedmont Community College focuses on offering education to individuals passionate about teaching younger children. The Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education degree focuses on learning about child development and how crucial their initial stages are. \
The program will allow students to work with children, communicate with families, and use strategies to assess the abilities of different children. Students will get practical experience through which they can work with children of varying age groups.
Applying to this degree at Central Piedmont will help with on-campus learning and help students network and pursue their passion. The university accepts applications for individuals interested in applying, whether you are a transfer or an international student.
Forsyth Technical Community College- Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
The Forsyth Technical Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education, which will help individuals pursue a fulfilling educational career. Designed to nurture young minds, this degree is all about learning from practical experiences, acknowledging effective teaching methods, and curriculum planning.
The major learning outcomes of this program include classroom management, play-based learning, early literacy skills, and parent-teacher collaboration. Students have access to a suggested list of courses they can choose from, such as Child Development, Family and Community, and Health and Safety.
With both day and evening classes and two years of completion time, students can apply for this degree by visiting the official website of Forsyth Technical Community College.
Forsyth Technical Community College- Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
The Forsyth Technical Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. It focuses on the Early Education Non-Lincensure Transfer Track for students to set their eyes on a fulfilling career path. They will gain a strong foundation in child development and learn effective teaching methods, curriculum planning, and practical experiences.
The primary learning outcomes of this degree include child development, classroom management, assessment techniques, play-based learning, and insight toward inclusive education. Students can consult an academic advisor before choosing their courses based on their interests and credits obtained before admission to Forsyth.
If students have some queries they would like answered, they can connect with the university through the website, and a representative will reach out to them. The website also includes step-by-step information on how students can apply to the program.
North Carolina Community College- Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education program at North Carolina Community College is a state-wide recognized program focusing on educational advancement. Ideal for students matriculating from North Carolina Community College, this program can help them with a licensure program and a Bachelor’s degree.
The degree plan includes general education and courses related to Birth and Kindergarten education plans. Students who want to pursue this program will have to study a total of 60 credit hours. Moreover, the college has multiple requirements and prerequisites that students are advised to go through before they apply for admission.
Guilford Technical Community College- Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Early Childhood Education
The Guilford Technical Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education for students passionate about teaching or nurturing the lives of the youngest learners. With a high-quality and engaging experience, this program aims to connect individuals to children in various settings.
Emphasizing small classrooms, fostering teacher-student relationships, and a welcoming environment, this degree has much potential. Moreover, students will be encouraged to participate actively in classrooms and on the field with younger children of different ages.
If, as a student, you are interested in this program, you can quickly begin your journey with Guilford Technical Community College. To apply to this program, visit their website, sign up with the required documents, and wait for the admissions department to contact you.
Wake Tech Community College- Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education Career Track
The Wake Tech Community College is offering an Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education Career Track. The degree includes a total of 70 credit hours along with two different options for class scheduling, both during the day and at night. Students can attend classes in all formats, such as online, face-to-face, and hybrid.
The Early Childhood Education program prepares individuals to work with children from birth until age 8 in different environments. Students will learn the theoretical part and practice in multiple settings with supervisors as well.
Coursework at this college includes child growth and development, physical needs of children, and social, emotional, and creative growth. Graduates of this program will be able to seek employment opportunities in preschools, public schools, and private schools.
The Community College also offers a financial aid option to provide equal opportunities for everyone. For information about admission or how to apply, The Wake Tech Community College website has categories to choose from before officially starting the application.
Brunswick Community College- Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
The Brunswick Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education program. Designed for future educators, this program prepares individuals to work with children from birth to age 8 in different environments. Students at the college will be encouraged to learn theories while focusing on child development, growth, and improved communication skills with families.
Graduates of this program can seek employment in appropriate programs and foster the cognitive and language skills of children. Other employment opportunities include Head Start Programs, recreational centers, and school-age programs.
If you’re ready to become a student at Brunswick Community College, they do not have a minimum GPA or test scores requirements. You can schedule a College tour with them, through the website, before applying to become a student.
Sandhills Community College- Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
The Sandhills Community College offers an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education that aims to prepare students to work with children in different settings, ensuring they understand young children’s development. The different approaches taught about dealing with children include play and learning, emotional and social, health and physical.
Students part of this program focus on early care and education, field trips, observations at local centers, and community guest speakers. Graduates have employment opportunities in childcare programs, preschools, public and private schools, and recreational centers.
Grounded in the National Association for the Education of Young Children, they have a playful approach to teaching and learning. Students learn multiple theories on child development, including a strong emphasis on the value of nature and outdoor education.
Gaston College- Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
Gaston College offers an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education with three different degree tracks in the Early Childhood program by preparing individuals to work with children from infancy through middle school in diverse learning environments. The associate degree also provides a seamless experience when students want to transfer to other places with a corresponding bachelor’s degree title.
Employment opportunities within this degree include child development, childcare programs, preschools, public and private schools, and school-age programs. The teachers conduct this program for students to focus on better concentration and practical experience, which counts the most in such a field.
Bachelor’s Degrees Programs In Early Childhood Education
East Carolina University- Bachelor of Science in Birth-Kindergarten Teacher Education
East Carolina University offers a Bachelor of Science in Birth-Kindergarten Teacher Education. This program has been introduced with the vision of working with families or early intervention programs for the betterment of young children, including toddlers and infants.
The birth through kindergarten program is offered online and on-campus, meaning individuals can choose how they want to pursue the degree. All students will be allowed to follow a career in education centers, schools, and the public school system.
Students will be exposed to real-world situations by learning and training and must complete a year-long internship before graduation in a primary school or a kindergarten setting. To apply to the program, students must choose the applicant type among multiple options before finalizing their application.
Appalachian State University- Bachelor of Science in Child Development – Birth through Kindergarten Education
Appalachian State University is currently offering a Bachelor of Science in Child Development. With a focus on birth through kindergarten education, this degree focuses on the public awareness part of early childhood education and allows students to teach in regular and special education.
The primary focus of this program is on children from birth till the age of 5, along with their families. Regular field experiences will be conducted, and the faculty will monitor students to see how well they can deal with children from different backgrounds.
Moreover, with the completion of the degree, individuals can obtain their license and work in non-school settings and agencies. Employment opportunities after graduation include early intervention agencies, summer camps, and early care.
To apply to this program, students can visit the APP State website, learn about the campus life they have to offer, and also enroll after going through the university requirements.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro- Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies
The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, is an excellent place committed to dedication and hard work. By offering a bachelor of science in Human Development and Family Studies, this program emphasizes teaching, research, and developing close relationships across the lifespan.
Students will have to serve as research assistants for a variety of projects and will also have to work on language and culture immersion. They will also be expected to work on projects that increase their knowledge, such as Spanish language skills and dealing with Costa Rican families.
After graduating, students can follow potential career paths such as School Counselor, Case Manager, Social Worker, Psychologist, and Residential Care Planner.
To apply to the program, students can go through the university website, choose the program description they want to opt for, and finalize their application. Begin your journey today at the University of North Carolina!
North Carolina Central University- Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education
North Carolina Central University offers a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Curriculum, preparing students with a bachelor’s degree to pursue a successful career in teaching or childcare. The program focuses on individuals with prior experience with children from birth until age 5. Students who complete this program will be able to seek employment in public schools, private pre-schools, and home-based programs.
The degree prepares students to deal with children from different backgrounds and also aids the families and communicate with them properly. The four-year curriculum includes multiple various courses for students to study from. Individuals can apply to the university by reading the admission requirements and starting the on-campus application process.
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University- Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Studies
The North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Studies. This degree will prepare individuals for a career focused on children, youth, and families from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.
The entire curriculum is focused on theoretical and ecological work with children.
These children are usually between birth to the ages of 5 or 8. The program offers two bachelor’s degrees, including B.K licensure and other necessary credentials. Students will observe and participate in fieldwork with children and families in various settings, including labs. Future employment opportunities include preschool and kindergarten programs, child advocates, and adoption and child protection services.
For applications, students can contact the Department of Family and Consumer Services to arrange a tour of the campus and the facilities they have to offer.
Master’s Degree Programs In Early Childhood Education
University of North Carolina at Greensboro- Master of Arts in Teaching
The Master of Arts in Teaching degree is offered at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and is suitable for candidates with a bachelor’s degree but did not pursue education or licensure. Program concentrations include Elementary Education, Special Education, and Teaching English to Speakers of other languages.
The faculty at UNC Greensboro comes from various backgrounds, such as communication, psychology, business, and political science. The common element among the faculty is the interest in teaching individuals and positively impacting their lives. During the Master’s degree, students must complete an internship and a placement in a local school.
Successful career choices include classroom teachers, special education teachers, inclusion specialists, and district-level specialists. To learn more about this department and apply for the Masters’s degree, students can apply through the website. They can explore the program at their own convenience, including the option to shift it online.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte- Master of Arts in Teaching, Child And Family Studies
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a Master of Arts in Teaching, Child and Family Studies, and Early Childhood Education. With a primary focus on the age group from birth to kindergarten, this program can help you become the teacher you always wanted to be and earn a Master’s degree at the same time.
This degree allows students to become self-reflective teachers and develop strategies to become researchers and leaders. Whether it is family for child development experts or encouraging lifelong positive outcomes for young children, the degree prepares individuals for all kinds of situations.
Students can opt for this degree if they are interested in mental health, child life, social work, and public health. Students who want to start their applications can find their program details on the website and any other additional requirements.
Western Carolina University- Master of Arts in Education
Western Carolina University has been educating future teachers since 1889 and offering unparalleled teacher education programs for professionals, currently offering a Master of Arts in Education. With a course outline that includes different courses, this degree is the most suitable for you if you already have a teaching license.
Individuals who want to improve and educate themselves further about young children are encouraged to pursue this Master of Arts in Education degree. The degree outline includes elementary, middle grades, and special education.
You can apply to this program if you want to start your journey today as a graduate student. The application process requires you to make an account as a first-time user. Once the application has been completed, WCU will email you for updates.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill- Master of Education in Early Childhood Intervention and Family Support
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a Master of Education in Early Childhood Intervention and Family Support. As this is a part-time program, students can continue to pursue their jobs along with the degree. Designed to help individuals gain the right skills and knowledge, this program can lead professionals to serve young children and their families.
With an emphasis on a professional role in early childhood, the program is supported by assessment and instructional practices developed through research. Completed within two years and a total of 33-36 credit hours, students can efficiently complete 2 to 3 courses per semester.
The program’s distinguishing features include robust experiential learning and assignments consistent with National Board Certification Requirements. Students applying to this program can also explore financial assistance through student aid such as grants, loans, and campus employment.
Ph.D. Degrees In Early Childhood Education
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill- Ph.D. in Education
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a Ph.D. in Education for students who want to pursue the most challenging educational issues and help every child discover their potential. The university provides a theoretical and interdisciplinary developmental science and exceptional education foundation.
The program empowers individuals and allows them to improve the lives of at-risk children, youth, and their families. The focus is on dealing with children from diverse sociocultural backgrounds and addressing today’s critical issues. Students must know that the program has requirements to be followed, and all materials should be submitted within the deadline. Moreover, letters of recommendation, and official test scores, are also required.
Early Childhood Education Degrees in North Carolina- Online
Let’s discuss some online options in North Carolina for anyone who wants to earn an online degree.
Associate Degree Programs In Early Childhood Education
Guilford Technical Community College- Online Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
The Guilford Technical Community College offers an online Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education program for individuals passionate about teaching and caring for young children. The highly-experienced and qualified faculty focuses on training individuals who can develop young children.
The program offers high-quality, engaging learning experiences, ensuring students connect with children and teachers. Students are asked to actively participate in the college classroom and on-field with young children of all ages. To create a welcoming environment, there is an emphasis on small classrooms and close relationships with the faculty.
Once students obtain this degree, they can also transfer it to any university they want. The application process includes filling out the residency form, applying for aid through scholarships and grants, and submitting official transcripts.
Wake Technical Community College– Online Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
The Wake Technical Community College offers an Online Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. This 4-year program has been designed for students who want to pursue their studies in different areas, such as computer science, engineering, mathematics, and other professional programs. Students admitted into this program can also get into other universities and colleges.
Moreover, with 60 credit hours, there are different options to pursue this degree, such as on-campus, online, and hybrid. Financial aid is also available for this program, so students seeking assistance can apply directly to the college. To register for the new session, students can enroll through an online application and enter all their credentials correctly.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs In Early Childhood Education
East Carolina University- Online Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science Education
East Carolina University offers an Online Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science Education. If you want to pursue a career in early childhood education, you will be able to teach children essential life skills such as cooking, child development, and design. Students will be able to receive training in different areas such as human development, personal and family finance, housing and interior design, nutrition, wellness, and consumer issues.
The job opportunities after pursuing this degree are plenty, such as teaching in pre-schools, public and private schools. Admission requirements for this university include a primary grade of C, a satisfactory interview with the faculty, and documentation of all required forms. After completing this program, candidates will be eligible for an ECU recommendation for an NC license.
Appalachian State University- Online Bachelor of Science in Child Development
The Appalachian State University offers an Online Bachelor of Science in Child Development – Birth through Kindergarten Education. A part-time degree with 120 credit hours is a flexible program that you can enroll in for learning opportunities. Students will have to learn how to deal with children and families from different backgrounds, along with ways to foster and engage learning.
Also, individuals will explore the roles and responsibilities of children from birth to kindergarten. After pursuing this degree, future careers include preschool teacher, kindergarten teacher, daycare director, and child life specialist. All students who want to enter this program must review the admission requirements. In case of transferring from any other institution, make sure to go through the Transfer Admission Requirements.
Master’s Degree Programs In Early Childhood Education
North Carolina A and T University- Online Master of Arts in Teaching in Child Development, Early Education, and Family Studies
North Carolina A and T University offers an Online Master of Arts in Teaching in Child Development, Early Education, and Family Studies. Designed for college graduates, this program helps them become licensed early care and education teachers. Students are to teach young children from birth to age five and support their families through community-based care.
The degree enables individuals to develop the proper knowledge, skills, and dispositions to become excellent education providers. Recent graduates will be able to gain a lot of content knowledge and career-related experience as teaching assistants.
Program requirements include completing 30 credit hours of coursework, maintaining a 3.0 GPA, and completing two semesters of clinical practice. Students who want to apply for this degree must provide a well-written Statement of Purpose, an official transcript from previous colleges, and 24 credit hours of content-related coursework.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro- Online Masters of Education in Birth-Kindergarten Interdisciplinary Studies In Education And Development
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers an Online Master of Education in Birth-Kindergarten Interdisciplinary Studies in Education and Development. The program prepares students to assume leadership roles in diverse settings, helping them develop the skills to deal with children and their families, from birth to age 5, with and without disabilities.
Students can learn through this degree by attending fully online classes that will be completed within two years. Along with a leadership internship, they will gain experience from the committed faculty through mentorship and advice. Upon completing the program, students will be eligible for different career choices, such as community college instructors, curriculum specialists, early childhood consultants, and home-based service providers.
Conclusion
North Carolina offers multiple options for students highly interested in early childhood education and see themselves as future teachers and educators. Numerous colleges and universities provide on-campus and flexible degrees so students can manage them with their full-time and part-time careers.
If you’re an individual who loves working with children and communicating with them, such a degree option can be the ideal opportunity to do what you love. We hope that this guide was helpful in terms of selecting the most suitable institution for the Early Childhood Education Degree!
Visit also:
- Early Childhood Education Degrees in Charlotte, North Carolina
- Early Childhood Education Degrees in Raleigh, North Carolina
